NEWSLETTER
The New York Knicks have upgraded OG Anunoby to questionable ahead of Friday night’s game, per the latest official injury report.
OG Anunoby has been sidelined since March 18 with an elbow injury and has missed nine straight games. Prior to this absence, the versatile wing also missed 18-straight games between Jan. 29 and March 10. He played in just three matchups between the two stints in street clothes.
Overall, Anunoby has suited up in 17 total games for the Knicks since they acquired him from the Toronto Raptors earlier this season. He’s averaged 14.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game to go along with 36.4 percent shooting from downtown.
All things considered, the timing couldn’t be better for Anunoby’s return. The Knicks learned on Thursday that Julius Randle would have to miss the remainder of the season due to his shoulder injury. A vital part of the Knicks’ starting lineup, the news was a harsh blow for a team that hoped to see him back on the floor come the postseason. While that’s undoubtedly still the case, Anunoby’s return will help at least plug some of the holes in the Knicks’ rotation.
The 26-year-old is one of the better wing defenders in the league. The Knicks currently sit 5th in the Eastern Conference, which means they could find themselves in a Round 1 series against the Orlando Magic. Having a healthy Anunoby and his high-caliber D could be pivotal against Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Not to mention, he’ll give the Knicks another solid shot creator to take some of the load off Brunson.
As for the here and now, OG Anunoby’s return could also spell trouble for the Bulls. Billy Donovan and Co. will see New York three times in the last six games. The Atlanta Hawks are right on their tale for the No. 9 seed with just a half-game deficit. If the Bulls want to ensure they can host the first Play-In Tournament game, stealing at least one from the Knicks would be huge.
